How to Pay for College

The Gallatin College Matched Education Savings Account (MESA) program is helping eligible hardworking students with limited incomes save for college expenses. For every $1 saved, the Gallatin College MESA program matches it with $4. Save up to $500 and you will be eligible for the maximum match of $2,000! Learn more

What is federal student aid?

Federal student aid comes from the U.S. Department of Education. It is money that helps a student pay for college expenses such as tuition and fees, housing, meals, books and supplies and transportation. The money can also be used to help pay for a computer or child care.

Federal aid is given out to students in the form of grants, loans and work-study.

Who gets federal student aid?

In order to be eligible for aid, you must

be a U.S. citizen, or an eligible noncitizen

have a valid Social Security number

register with Selective Service if you are a male between the ages of 18 and 25

maintain satisfactory academic progress

possess a final, official high school transcript posting graduation date or GED certificate or have completed a high school education in a homeschool setting

How do you apply for
Federal student aid?

Using your and your parents’ most recent tax information, fill out the form. Note: you will also need your and your parents’ social security numbers.

Remember! You must file your FAFSA by March 1st of each year to get priority consideration.

Review your Student Aid Report (SAR).
After you apply, you’ll receive a Student Aid Report, or SAR. Your SAR contains the information reported on your FAFSA. Review your SAR information and make any corrections or changes, if necessary. Montana State University will receive your SAR electronically.

Contact the Office of Financial Aid at MSU.
Make sure the Office of Financial Aid has all of the information needed to determine your eligibility. If you are eligible, the Office of Financial Aid will send you an award letter showing the amount and types of aid Gallatin College MSU will offer you.